Hong Kong chief executive Tung Chee Hwa officiated on September 6 a grand reception in Government House to welcome the Olympic gold medallists who are paying a three-day visit in Hong Kong.

"Today this hall glitters with the golden luster brought by our national heroes who have won 32 Olympic gold medals for our country. On behalf of all Hong Kong citizens, I extend a warmest welcome to you," said Tung.

He said that athletes' stay in Hong Kong is all too short, "butI hope, and I believe, that at the end of your visit and after spending time with our citizens, you will leave with fond memories of the wonders of the Pearl of the Orient and of the passion of its people."

The chief executive said that during the 16-day Athens Olympics, Chinese athletes have brought gloriously touching moments one after another.

"From these critical moments we can see your impossibly arduous training, we can see your uncommon perseverance and relentless fighting spirit. And the smiles on your faces symbolize the rise of our great motherland," said Tung.

Before and after the reception, athletes met with and received congratulations from hundreds of joyful citizens waiting outside the Government House.

The delegation of Olympic gold medallists arrived at Hong Kong Monday morning. A series of programs will be held for members of the public and gold medallists to share joys from gold medals.

Source: Xinhua